Troops of the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have stormed the stronghold of a notorious bandit kingpin, Gwaska Dan Karmi, in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, neutralising scores of bandits during a fierce gun battle.
The operation followed credible intelligence indicating that more than 100 armed bandits had assembled at the camp to coordinate large-scale attacks on surrounding communities and military supply routes. After days of intensive surveillance, ground troops, supported by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), intercepted the bandits on 31 January 2026.
A fierce firefight ensued as the bandits attempted to flank and encircle the advancing troops but were overwhelmed by the superior firepower and tactical coordination of the security forces. Several bandits were neutralised, while others fled with gunshot wounds. The camp was subsequently set ablaze before troops conducted a tactical withdrawal.
The NAF component is currently carrying out aerial interdiction missions to track and intercept fleeing bandits, while ground forces continue to dominate the area and sustain pressure on criminal elements.
The Nigerian Army confirmed that some gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the encounter. One combat enabler vehicle was also hit by an enemy rocket-propelled grenade, resulting in a fire outbreak. The Army honoured the fallen troops for their courage and sacrifice, reiterating its unwavering commitment to the ongoing counter-banditry operations.
Military authorities stated that troop morale and combat effectiveness remain high as operations continue to dismantle bandit networks and disrupt their logistics and supply chains across the region.
The disclosure was contained in a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army / Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, dated 1 February 2026.
